With the deepest regrets we note the passing away of Harry Goonetilleke.

He was the fifth Commander of the Sri Lanka Air Force. But our appreciation is not only because he was a Commander, but because he rendered yeomen service to the Sri Lanka Ex-Air Force Association and to the Sri Lanka Ex-Servicemen’s Association.

Being the founder Patron, he was the driving force behind the Ex-Air Force Association from its inception.

He did not stop at that. He was a Past President of the Sri Lanka Ex-Servicemen’s Association and also he was instrumental in forming the war widows rehabilitating and counseling project. He did a yeomen service as the Chairman, Ex-Servicemen’s Welfare Services (Pvt.) Ltd.

At meetings and functions of these Associations, he was present to advice, direct and guide the members coordinating these movements. He always stood up for the welfare of members and spoke for their benefit.

A down-to earth man, although he was a former Commander of a fighting force, Air Chief Marshal, Harry Goonetilleke used to sit down and partake of a drink, even with people of lesser calibre. He did not have a chip on his shoulders as most others were prone to do. He was a man of the people loved by everybody.

We are proud to note that Harry Goonetilleke has shone amongst them and in his humble way was there at every beck and call of the people who rallied behind him for advice and assistance.